Marco Bezzecchi
Toprak Razgatlioglu’s MotoGP career has got off to a rather difficult start due to the current calibre of Yamaha’s machinery. However, Andrea Dovizioso is under the impression that it will actually benefit him in the long run.
After securing a high-profile move over from the World Superbikes category to MotoGP for 2026, Toprak Razgatlioglu’s adaptation period has taken hit after hit because of the uncertainty regarding Yamaha’s competitiveness.
The Turkish rider replaced Miguel Oliveira at the Yamaha-backed Pramac Racing, with the Portuguese, in turn, claiming Razgatlioglu’s vacant seat at the BMW outfit in WSBK.
However, pre-season has been marred by issues with the Japanese constructor’s new V4-powered M1.
On the second day of the Sepang test, the Yamaha didn’t get any running in at all due to safety concerns regarding the new power unit.
Razgatlioglu has since painted a desolate picture about his time so far in the premier class, highlighting how his new bike is causing him stress.
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Andrea Dovizioso thinks Toprak Razgatlioglu will benefit from Yamaha’s struggles in 2026
Despite the multitude of issues that the 29-year-old is experiencing ahead of his rookie season in Grand Prix motorcycle racing, Yamaha test rider Andrea Dovizioso can only see the positive side of things.
In an interview with La Gazetta dello Sport, the 15-time Grand Prix winner said, “I think the expectations for Toprak are excessively high. I’m pleased that’s the case because he deserves it.
“Realistically, though, 2026 will be very complicated; he’ll have a lot to learn. Looking at his approach in testing, he’s aware of all this.
“This could make a positive difference because there will be many difficult situations where he’ll have to stay calm and work hard.
“This way, he’ll be able to reach the end of the season with more experience and then be ready for the new regulations.”
Razgatlioglu has been tipped to be on the phone with his manager in an attempt to get him out of the current mess he finds himself in, but Dovizioso believes he just needs to remain calm and patient.
He added, “The development of the V4 engine is at stake. Toprak and his team know full well that they will have to stay calm so they can work and understand as much as possible.”
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Andrea Dovizioso has been integral to Toprak Razgatlioglu’s transition into MotoGP
Ahead of the three-time WSBK champion’s move over to the premier class, Dovizioso highlighted how Razgatlioglu’s age will make things ‘complicated’ for him to adapt to new machinery straight away.
The difference between production and prototype bikes is stark enough as it is, and it’s clear that the Turkish rider has had to make some amendments to his riding style to cater to the different equipment.
Due to this, Yamaha tasked Dovizioso with aiding Razgatlioglu’s development during the pre-season tests.
As a seasoned veteran when it comes to MotoGP, the Italian knows all about how to get the most out of the machinery he is given to make a bid for the title.
While the 29-year-old will certainly not be anywhere near a championship battle this season, Dovizioso’s input will definitely aid him in getting on the right path towards it.
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